ISRAEL – Changes to Hi-Tech (HIT) Visa Applications Process

Effective immediately, the Israeli Ministry of Interior (MOI) has implemented amended rules for the new “Hi-Tech” (HIT) Visa. Under the amended rules, all applicants must now apply for their HIT Visas through Israeli overseas consular posts.

Previously, applicants from visa waiver countries were exempt from consular processing prior to arriving in Israel. In a related change, the MOI has also lengthened the validity period for Short Employment Authorization (SEA) Visas for “Hi-Tech” applicants from 45 days to 90 days.